As we move through 2025, the Naples City Council remains focused on delivering progress that reflects our community’s values, preserving our natural beauty, investing in resilience, and enriching the quality of life for all who call Naples home.
The first half of the fiscal year has been marked by meaningful achievements across a wide range of priorities. Here are just a few of note.
Leadership and Planning
In January, the Council appointed Gary Young as City Manager, effective February 1, 2025, bringing steady leadership to guide our vision for Naples’ future. We also advanced long-term planning by approving a professional services agreement with Johnson Engineering to modernize the City’s Comprehensive Plan. This critical update will reinforce our long-term goals, strengthen resilience strategies, manage growth thoughtfully, and preserve the unique character of our community.
Economic Development and the Arts
Naples continues to flourish as a center for culture and creativity. The beautifully renovated Sugden Theatre reopened in June 2024, earning LEED certification and offering improved acoustics, accessibility features, and a new sensory room. In October 2024, Gulfshore Playhouse unveiled the Baker Theatre and Education Center, featuring two state-of-the-art performance stages and expanded educational spaces that will inspire and enrich generations to come.
Infrastructure and Resilience
We have made significant investments in infrastructure and environmental resilience:
In spring 2025, the new 1st Avenue South Parking Garage opened in the Design District, adding 364 free parking spaces to support downtown accessibility
In January, the Council finalized a downtown traffic study contract to address congestion and enhance pedestrian safety
In April, we approved a $2.59 million contract to restore 30 beach access points damaged by Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton. These improvements include ADA compliant features, storm resilient pathways, and refreshed landscaping
The Multi Basin Stormwater Plan, received in June 2025, lays the groundwork for long-term drainage solutions to protect both homes and natural habitats
We also authorized the replacement of Raw Water Production Well No. 408 to ensure a reliable supply of potable water, and advanced stormwater lake restoration projects for North Lake and South Lake to improve water quality and flood control
Conservation and Stewardship
One of our most significant achievements this year was the permanent protection of 104 acres at the Naples Beach Club through a recorded conservation easement in October 2024. This vital step secures open space and recreational lands for public use and environmental preservation for generations to come.
Healthcare and Community Services
To expand access to life-saving medical care, the Council approved the site plan for the Naples Community Hospital Heart, Vascular, and Stroke Institute, with a ceremonial groundbreaking held in June 2025.
Strategic Investment in Key Corridors
In February 2024, the Council launched the conceptual master plan process for the Miracle Mile Corridor, an exciting opportunity to reimagine one of Naples’ signature gateways and support thoughtful, well-designed development along this vital route.
It has been a productive and purpose-driven season, and we know that the challenges in the next legislative session will be just as demanding, invigorating, and full of opportunity. With your continued engagement and support, we will keep building a Naples that reflects the best of who we are, now and for future generations.
Blessings,
Mayor Teresa Lee Heitmann
